A good chunk of the discourse around the success of Sony Animation’s KPop Demon Hunters is the frequently asked question, “Why didn’t they release this in theaters? It’s good enough.” This is usually followed by someone else saying “Oh you know Sony would have put it against Fantastic Four or something.” Most can concede it was a missed opportunity and agree seeing that eye-popping animation on a gigantic screen would be amazing.
Sony could not slate KPDH in theaters even if they wanted to…that power rests with Netflix, who solidly owns the characters and concept. And the execs at Netflix tend to look at theaters the way Mira looks at a one-eyed, fanged blue underworld creature — that is to say, they’re mortal enemies. They’re leaving a lot of cash on the table, sure, but they would rather limit successes like Glass Onion to one week if it means associating with….with….”THEM.”
These are unprecedented circumstances though. Even Netflix can’t pretend this level of demand doesn’t exist and so, later this month, they will partner with Regal to screen KPop Demon Hunters in select theaters around the country. However, it will only be for two evenings — August 23 and 24 — and it will be a “sing-along” version where the lyrics to Golden, Soda Pop and other melodies will be printed onscreen for the audience to croon with them.
That kind of experience isn’t for every fan, or every age bracket. But like we said, Netflix is just barely allowing this. KPDH is still the #1 movie on the service; Happy Gilmore 2 was only able to dethrone it for about three days. They’re likely afraid of a full theatrical run cannibalizing that success — it wouldn’t, but that’s their way of thinking.
KPop Demon Hunters technically already played in theaters. THREE theaters, to be precise. It was to hit the minimum number of screenings necessary to make the film eligible for Oscar consideration, a cheat they’ve done for previous films. They’re probably grateful they pulled that stunt, as the attention increases its odds of success at obtaining a statuette.
Tickets for the KPop Demon Hunters sing-along are on sale now.
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The post KPop Demon Hunters Will Finally Play In Theaters…Kind Of appeared first on Anime Superhero News.
